Part 374: Frederick B

Might I have a word, milady?

Ah, Frederick. Of course. What is it? Why are you so fidgety? Wait, is this about your inexperience in the matters of the heart again?

Aha! You've come to me for love advice, haven't you?

Er, n-no, milady! I assure you, my intentions are entirely innocent.

I was hoping you'd show the new recruits how well you handle a spear.

...I suppose I could. But what would be the point? A common soldier is never going to be capable of wielding a spear the way I do.

No. But at the very least, I want them to experience your legendary skills firsthand.

Then they'll understand that your skills are born of effort, and not a matter of luck.

...Luck? But why would they think that in the first place?

Well, you see... Er, how shall I put it?

For mere military mortals such as our new recruits and myself... Well, your martial genius places you on an entirely different plane. So far above us, in fact, that it's different to understand how skilled you really are.

Laying it on a bit thick, aren't you?

I'm quite sincere. It must be very difficult having talent of your sort. It must be frustrating to be so constantly misunderstood and under-appreciated. For our army's morale, I think it's important that our new recruits understand this.

.....

I know it's an onerous request. You have every right to refuse.

Oh, no. I'll do it.

In fact, I'm delighted you asked...

You are?

I've always felt... apart from the rest of society. Like I'm in a different world. And when I'd complain about this or that, no one would take me seriously. People would say, "Oh, you're a genius. What do you have to complain about?"

You're the first to realize that... Well, it's not easy being me.

Well, I am pleased that milady is pleased!

So! Now that we've settled that, tell me all about your love life!

Heh, er... perhaps later? ....Much, much later?